Curious about being a MEMBER of The Genki Spark?
The Genki Spark is a multi-generational, Asian women's arts and advocacy group that uses Japanese taiko drumming, personal stories, and creativity to build community, develop leadership, and advocate respect for all.
We're Passionate about Sisterhood:
"With my sisters, I can do anything!" We're Passionate about Community: "I believe laughter can tear down any wall" We're Passionate about Leadership: "I believe that one word, one action, one person can make a difference" The idea for The Genki Spark was partially born of conversations local Asian women were having about the need for powerful, visible role models and a supportive, creative space for Asian women of all ages. We aim to build community and provide support for Asian women to explore their identities so that she may proudly claim herself while advocating for the respect of others. Taiko drumming is an art form rooted in Japan. We stand proud on the shoulders of the early Japanese and Asian American activists of the '60s and '70s who founded some of the first taiko groups in North America. These early pioneers were fighting for civil rights and were pivotal in the development of Asian American studies programs. These activists understood the power of art and social change. Big, loud, and compelling, our performances are probably what most people associate with The Genki Spark, but aside from playing taiko we deliberately share personal stories of empowerment in order to inspire others to claim space and fully share themselves. We believe in equality, fairness, collaboration, and unity. We often partner with community and educational organizations working towards social justice or the empowerment of others to offer workshops, facilitate discussions, conduct panel presentations, and speak out on issues we care about. |
LAST CHANCE for
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LAST CHANCE: Sign Up for our 1-3 MONTH INTENSIVE TRAINING PROGRAM
COST: First month ($100), Second/Third month ($200)
TIME: 1:45PM-3:45PM DATES: Sundays, January 4 - March 21-22**, 2015 LOCATION: Brookline Ballet, Coolidge Corner, Brookline, MA $50 deposit due at registration. This fee is not pro-rated for missed classes. There is no obligation to join. During the intensive you will learn about the history of taiko in both Japan and North America, basic components of the art form (kata/form, kuchishowga/language of taiko, kiai (energetic shouts), and movement), and the basic elements of a song. Equally important, you will have the opportunity to share experiences and get to know the other Asian women in the Genki community. ** Participants will work towards performing in our MAKING WOMEN'S HISTORY Month event at Simmons College March 21st and 22nd 2015. AFTER the INTENSIVE TRAINING PROGRAM you will have an opportunity to apply for membership. Enrollment happens ONCE a year so don't wait to try us out : )
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Three month trial: then what??Apply for Membership |
After the Intensive Training Program participants will have an opportunity to apply for full membership, which will begin with a 6 month MEMBER IN TRAINING period.
During this time you will have opportunities to participate in community building and advocacy activities as well as perform with the group to determine if this is a right fit for you. You must be interested in the art form in addition to being part of a supportive community of women and our mission to advocate respect for all. If you are interested in only playing taiko this is not the group for you. Members must be willing to be VISIBLE and VOCAL as an Asian women which means sharing parts of your personal story. By sharing our stories we make room for others to do the same. Members must commit to a minimum of 8 events a year (in addition to a 2 day summer retreat), 75% of Sunday practices, as well as leadership development, advocacy, and community building activities. Details of member expectations will be discussed throughout the Intensive Training Program and a formal application and orientation process with the general members. Membership Fees: $100/month plus the cost of personal costumes, equipment, and some additional training. Other costs might include field trips, which often include the road trip snacks we love. Membership fees include artistic and leadership development training which include pathways to paid leadership. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. A positive, community-minded attitude is critical. ALL AGES WELCOME. Unfortunately we are unable to offer scholarships at this time. |